Petland using puppy mills

Submitted by The Cat/Dog Log Blog

With Christmas around the corner, many families are contemplating buying a pet as a gift. Here’s some information you need to know about Petland, the largest chain of puppy-selling stores in the U.S., Canada, and other countries. Petland claims they get their pups from caring pet professionals with high standards, but the Humane Society of the United States has uncovered that Petland is the # 1 supporter of puppy mills. Not only are puppy mills cruel in the way they house and treat the mother dogs, because of the unsanitary conditions the pups may be more prone to health problems initially and later in life.

Watch this video, then take action here which will send an email to voice your objection to this practice. You can take it a step further by contacting your nearest Petland store and tell them to get out of the puppy mill business by clicking here.

I’ve done all of the above. It only takes a couple minutes, so would you all please help be a voice for these poor dogs who can’t speak for themselves- no dog should have to live their life in a cage. Thanks everyone!

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!

Submitted by The Cat/Dog Log Blog

glitter-graphics.com

How to Keep Your Dog Out of the Litterbox

Submitted by Natural Pet Health Blog

Does your dog like to steal “treats” from your cat’s litterbox? It’s OK—you don’t have to be embarrassed! This is a common problem for many pet owners. For reasons we’ll never fully understand, many dogs like to eat the feces of other animals—especially cats. The name for this is “coprophagia” which means, “the oral ingestion of fecal material.” Yes, this is really disgusting, but dogs think it’s perfectly normal.

To best way to keep your dog from engaging in this behavior is simply to prevent it from happening in the first place. It only makes sense to scoop your cat’s litterbox daily. Twice a day is even better. It also helps to feed your cat on a schedule (as opposed to leaving food available at all times) since now you will be able to predict more easily when kitty needs to relieve himself (and when you need to scoop out the box).

If your dog beats you to it I can guarantee that yelling at him is not going to do much good. He’s already been rewarded for his behavior. Some people go so far as to sprinkle Tabasco sauce or cayenne pepper on the stool to deter the dog from eating it. I really wouldn’t recommend this. First of all, if you’re going to go all through all that trouble you might as well just scoop the poop out of the box and be done with it. I’ve also heard that some dogs really don’t mind the taste of it.

In addition to regular scooping, the best way to keep your dog out of the litterbox is to make it accessible to the cat only. This can be achieved many ways, but one of the easiest is to use a cat door. There are many varieties available but the one I like best resembles a simple archway. It is easy to install and can be either painted or stained to match your décor. This can be especially handy if you keep your cat’s litterbox in a room where the door is closed often, like the laundry room, or in a closet.

If your dog likes to eat the occasional cat turd or two it probably won’t hurt him much. However, it may be a good idea to have him wormed regularly by your veterinarian. Also, proper dental hygiene is a must!

Treating Your Pet’s Emotional Imbalances with Flower Essences

Submitted by Natural Pet Health Blog

For many pets, a behavioral problem turns into a terminal disease. Every year, millions of pets that are often otherwise healthy are euthanized to give their human owners relief from their behavior problems. These problems can include unruliness, excessive vocalization, aggression, inappropriate urination, possessiveness,  and destructiveness, just to name a few.

Unfortunately, euthanasia for behavior problems is the main cause of death in young animals. The high costs associated with proper veterinary attention and animal training also results in too many animals being abandoned and neglected by their owners.

However, in many cases a pet’s behavior problem can be modified and even solved completely without the use of expensive behavior therapy and training. In fact, a problem can be solved quite simply using little money with the help of flower essences.

Many people believe that an animal’s true nature becomes distorted after spending an extended period of time with humans. As a result, certain behavior problems can emerge. Flower essences can be used to restore balance in our pet’s lives.

Pets often respond to flower essence treatments more quickly than people do, perhaps because they don’t come equipped with the emotional baggage we all know as “skepticism.” Nothing makes a believer out of a nonbeliever better than seeing firsthand a pet’s dramatic response to a flower essence program.

Many veterinarians and other healthcare professionals recommend flower essences to the owner of a trouble pet. Sometimes only treating the owner results in a positive behavioral change in the pet! Animals are very sensitive to their owner’s emotional state. Pets, by nature, will both absorb and reflect the emotional climate of their household, whether good or bad. Animal behaviorist Michael Fox refers to this phenomenon as “sympathetic resonance.”

Pets seem to read human body language better than people do. Most pet owners also do not understand the real world of animal behavior and therefore consider it normal for animals to act in human ways. Therefore, they inappropriately apply human qualities to them.

For example, when Buster destroys the house he’s doing it because “he’s mad at me” or when Fluffy pees on the boyfriend’s coat she’s doing it because she’s “jealous.” Animal behaviorists are only too aware of this problem. Most agree that at least 50% of their work involves treating owners. This includes discovering to what extent the animal’s problem has been influenced by the owner’s behavior and educating them so that the pet doesn’t get into the same state again.

People often fail to recognize stress in their pets because they have come to regard the conditions they impose on them to be normal. It is not normal for a dog to be kept in a crate for hours and hours at a time with no exercise. However, many pet owners use the crate as a training tool.

I’m not saying that crates shouldn’t be used for training purposes. They are very effective when used properly. Pet owners simply need to understand that this is only one example of how we have removed from animals their natural territory, pack, pack leader, working and hunting oppurtunities and substituted a quite unnatural domestic situation. And the only reason we do it is because it works in OUR favor—not theirs.

Behaviors such as biting, chewing, smelling, barking, and scratching occur quite normally in the animal’s natural environment. However, they are considered problems when they are used in our environment.

When using flower essences to treat your pet’s behavior problems try putting yourself in the animal’s place. Try to feel what he feels and sense what he senses. Study the indications for each flower essence either by yourself or with a practitioner. You can then determine which are appropriate to use based on your pet’s behavior patterns, personality traits, and emotions.

We Recommend:

PetCalm is a natural, safe, proven herbal and homeopatic remedy that may be used regularly to reduce anxiety and stress in highly strung or chronically anxious pets, or as needed for relief during particularly stressful situations like competitive events, visits to the vet, change of home, domestic stress, etc.

Recommended Reading:

Bach Flower Remedies for Animals by Helen Graham and Gregory Vlamis

Flower Essences for Animals: Remedies for Helping the Pets You Love by Lila Devi

The Italian Greyhound

Submitted by Big Paw Designs Blog

The Italian Greyhound is a small size dog. The adults typically weigh between 6 and 10 pounds when fully grown. This breed reaches about 10 inches in height for a fully grown dog.

A miniature of the classic Greyhound, the Italian Greyhound is delicate, nimble, and graceful. When his interest has been piqued, he will raise his ears in a manner that oozes curiosity.

The coat of an Italian Greyhound is short and glossy. Grooming this breed of dog is an extremely simple task. In fact, rubbing a bit of silk over his coat is all that is needed to bring the gloss back to his coat.

Their coats come in a variety of colors including red, fawn, cream, blue, black, or red and white. Additionally, a bit of white mixed in with the other colors in various places on the dog is also seen on occasion.

His bones are delicate and very fine. Therefore, they are prone to easy breakage. Although he can appear to have strength, the condition of his bones precludes that. Since he has such a delicate nature, it is best not to acquire an Italian Greyhound for a family that includes very young or rough children.

The Italian Greyhound is undemanding regarding diet, exercise, and grooming. He is an intelligent and lively animal with few needs. However, he does seem to mind the cold and would be happiest if kept warm.

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View more at www.bigpawdesigns.com

Make your Own Catnip Mice - What a treat

Submitted by Big Paw Designs Blog

Who loves you more than your cat? Nobody, that’s who. And that’s why http://www2.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifyou want to give your kitty a little treat, right? Of course. With a little ingenuity and these simple directions you can whip out a catch of goodies guaranteed to make your kitty purr. After he bounces off the walls for a minute or two, that is. To make these wonderful treats you will need the following:

* Cotton print fabric– small prints work best. About one yard, This is a great project for scraps! * Matching thread * Coffee mug or large water glass * Marker that will show up on your fabric * Scissors * Bulk Catnip * Yarn or kite string for tails

Use the mug and marker to trace circles on wrong side of fabric. Cut out circles with scissors. Fold in half, wrong side out and stitch to 1/2″ from closed. Turn inside-out and stuff with catnip. Insert a couple of inches of the string into the opening then, with tiny stitches, sew shut. Don’t worry about details such as eyes or nose because Kitty won’t notice anyway. Make up a basketful of these little catnip mice and watch your pussycat go wild.

And make sure all treats are safe and secure and don’t have something that would come off and harm your kitty. Check your treats and toys regularly too and discard when they become worn.

All articles copyright bigpawdesigns.com. Do not repost or copy without permission.
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Dog Facts: A Dog’s Sight

Submitted by Big Paw Designs Blog

Dogs are not fully color blind, but their sight is very dim. It’s similar to the way we see objects or people at twilight. A dog’s vision is based on movement, shape and brightness instead of color. Don’t let their lack of colored vision fool you. Their other senses such as smelling and hearing well compensate for the lack of vision.

the spirit of Thanksgiving

Submitted by The Cat/Dog Log Blog

(photo origin unknown)

We received the “Butterfly Award”

Submitted by The Cat/Dog Log Blog

We just received the beautiful “Butterfly Award” from our friend Karen Zemek and her blog “My Funny Dad, Harry.” If you aren’t already familiar with this blog, I recommend you check it out, as Karen has written a loving tribute to her dad, who was a true lover of all felines and over his lifetime certainly did his part to help take care of as many stray cats as possible. Thank you Karen for passing the award on to us.

The rules for this award are:

1. Put the logo on your blog.
2. Add a link to the person who awarded you.
3. Nominate 10 other blogs.
4. Add links to those blogs on yours.
5. Leave a message for your nominees on their blogs

And here are my nominates for the award:
Beaded Tail
El Diario DeLorenza
Friends Furever
Health Nut Wannabee Mom
Jodi’s Journey
Maggie and Mitch the Airedales
Of Cats
Serendipity Park
Princess Snowball
The Hudson Furkids

The Importance of Spaying & Neutering Your Dog

Submitted by Natural Pet Health Blog

What is the importance of spaying and neutering your dog?  According to the Humane Society, approximately three millions dogs or more are euthanized each year.  Remanded to shelters because they have been abandoned or because their owners can no longer care for them, the over-population of dogs in animal shelters has reached major proportions. 

While the aforementioned statistic is hard to imagine, it is nonetheless true.  This is why animal advocates constantly remind the general population to have their dogs spayed or neutered.  There are other reasons why this method is recommended.

Dogs have an innate desire to breed.  It’s just a fact.  More importantly, however, spaying and neutering can prevent cancer.  In addition, neutered male dogs will less likely want to run away or engage in rough-housing with other male dogs.  Male dogs are inherently territorial.  If he isn’t neutered, then he will use his dominance over other dogs particularly when a female is involved. 

Spaying and neutering your dog does not mean they will become lazy, gain weight, or have a personality change.  All the procedure does is to prevent your dog from seeking out other dogs to mate with.  According to the Humane Society, “…. in six short years, one female dog and her offspring can give birth to hundreds of puppies.”

Imagine if you will that there are millions of pet owners.  Now imagine if each pet were not spayed or neutered and the offspring were thrown in garbage bags, left by unscrupulous owners to fend for themselves, or bred in puppy mills to make a quick buck.  There have been countless incidents which bear out these facts.

Unless you are a breeder, there is no reason not to have your dog spayed or neutered.  The result would reduce the number of homeless dogs lying in wait for someone to adopt them, reduce the number of dogs roaming the streets for scraps, and reduce the likelihood that dogs will attack pets.

Owning a dog comes with a responsibility to ensure the pet is happy, safe, and lives in a welcoming and caring environment.  Conversely, a dog that is put to sleep due to over-population could have been someone’s life-long companion.  This is why adoption is preferred.

Although puppies are the first to be adopted in shelters, it is often the case that adult dogs can only be kept for a certain amount of time due to the over-population of dogs in this country.  Thus, they face a grim future.

In an effort to reduce the number of dogs, a spaying and neutering program has begun in some cities and has resulted in a 30%-60% decline in euthanasia.

While this is good news, it is up to all individuals across the nation to not only spay and neuter their pets, but adopt them as well.  What other choice do we have?

We Recommend:

According to pet expert and author CJ Puotinen, most holistic veterinarians and animal health care professions list annual vaccinations and commercial pet foods as the major contributory cause in the rising rates of chronic illness in pets today. This has led many veterinarians to search for alternatives and to espouse more holistic methods of keeping our pets healthy.

Natural remedies for humans have been used with great effect for the pets in the family. Therefore, how could  the need for remedies especially designed and formulated for pets, with pet friendly doses and remedies which could be easily administered to dogs and cats, be ignored?

Out of this obvious need was born PetAlive - a range of herbal, homeopathic and nutraceutical remedies to help with a variety of ailments commonly experienced by pets. Formulated by a clinical psychologist, all PetAlive remedies are pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards, are 100% guaranteed, safe and effective to help your pet battle common illnesses and ailments and maintain optimum health.

Leftovers can be Harmful to Pets

Submitted by Big Paw Designs Blog

It seems as if we just can’t eat in peace without our pets looking at us so forlornly as though we never feed them. Most pet owners end up feeling guilty and obligingly hand over the leftovers to our four-legged companions but this may not be such a good idea. Some foods can actually be harmful to pets. Certain people foods can cause pain, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort and other illness in pets. For example, onions are toxic to cats and dogs and can cause anemia.

I once had a cat that loved chocolate fudge bars. I didn’t know it then but I now know that chocolate can cause hyperactivity, dehydration and tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) in cats and dogs. Coffee, tea and tomatoes can also be harmful to pets. You’re probably wondering why anyone would give a cat or dog coffee or tea. Most people wouldn’t but there are some pets that will help themselves when you’re not looking. My friend has a dog that loves coffee. I found that out while visiting one day. I got up from the table to make a phone call and when I returned a moment later the dog was happily devouring my coffee.

Many people mistakenly believe that because cats love milk, cheese and other dairy products that these items are good for them. Cats are actually lactose intolerant, meaning that they lack the enzyme necessary for proper digestion of dairy products. Although some cats can digest dairy products better than others, many will suffer from vomiting and diarrhea after ingesting dairy products.

Dietary requirements can vary in each pet depending on age, health condition and other factors. You should always consult your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet’s diet. People that have both a cat and dog in their household may find it interesting that the pets will eat each other’s food. While it is true that dogs will eat cat food and cats will eat dog food you should not let your pets do this. If they won’t stay out of each other’s food separate them by putting them in separate rooms at feeding time. You should not allow cats to eat dog food or dogs to eat cat food. Cats require more protein in their diets than dogs. Cat food contains a higher amount of protein that can be harmful to dogs and dog food won’t provide proper nutrition for cats.

Adding leftovers to your pet’s regular commercial pet food diet can alter the balance of your pet’s diet causing allergic reactions such as skin allergies. Keep their diet and feeding as routine as possible. Cats are carnivorous and need animal fat in their diets. Most of the time a good commercial pet food will provide the necessary nutrients they need but many brands of pet food contain a bunch of unnecessary fillers. Organic pet foods are more expensive but much healthier for your pet since they don’t contain preservatives or chemicals.

Cats that have access to the outdoors will probably supplement their own diets with an occasional bird or rodent. Those that are kept indoors can be given liver, chicken or hamburger periodically. Improper nutrition can lead to physical ailments and even personality disorders or behavior problems. Unless your pet has health problems or dietary restrictions a good commercial pet food fed twice daily along with a fresh supply of water should be sufficient. Consult with your veterinarian if you feel your pet is not getting adequate nutrition from his diet. Your veterinarian may suggest a change in diet or the addition of a dietary supplement.

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Older Post Home

Submitted by The Cat/Dog Log Blog

Thanksgiving means wonderful traditions, delicious food, and a house full of family and friends. It also means a lot of extra noise and confusion which can be upsetting for our pets.

It’s important to give your pets a quite room where they can get away from the commotion if they fell overwhelmed, and have their food, treats and toys handy for them. Playing soft music can also help drown out the noise and help them feel calm.

If your pets will be out and around your guests, be sure everyone knows not to feed them table scraps. The ASPCA has some additional helpful tips to help you get through the day without any visits to the emergency vet clinic. CLICK HERE to go to their site.

Tips for Choosing the Right Pet

Submitted by Big Paw Designs Blog

Having a pet in the home can be a dream come true, but choosing the wrong pet can be a real nightmare. Those considering bringing a furry friend into their lives need to think carefully about what type of pet is best. A pet is a lifetime commitment, and it is important to choose wisely.

One of the most important factors would be pet owners should consider is the type of lifestyle they lead. Many of us lead very busy lives these days, and the need for daily walks and frequent bathroom breaks may make a dog an impractical pet in some situations. Those considering buying a puppy or adopting an older dog should be sure that they have enough time to devote to the new addition.

Those without the time to commit to a dog may want to instead consider a cat. Cats tend to be much more self sufficient than dogs, without the requirement of bathroom breaks and daily walks. Cats still love companionship, however, and it is important that any pet get plenty of mental stimulation. Pet owners who are frequently away from home for extended periods may want to adopt two cats so that they can keep each other company.

It is also important for would be pet parents to consider their living situation. Those homeowners with a large property, or at least a big fenced backyard, may want to think about a large breed or high energy dog, while those who live in smaller quarters may want to think twice. For those more cramped quarters, a smaller dog, an older and less active dog, a cat or even a pocket pet like a hamster may be the best choice. The key is to consider the needs of the pet itself before making this important decision.

All articles copyright bigpawdesigns.com. Do not repost or copy without permission.
View more at www.bigpawdesigns.com

Common Household Items that are Poisonous to Dogs

Submitted by Natural Pet Health Blog

Just as you house-proof your home before the new baby begins to walk, you have to consider that a new dog will go after just about anything in the home.  Here are some common household items that are poisonous to dogs.

* Medications:  Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, aspirin, cough and cold syrups, and prescription drugs should all be kept out of the reach of dogs.

* Indoor Plants:  These can be very dangerous for dogs and should only be kept on a counter high enough so a dog cannot reach for it.  If you have a large dog, you may want to get rid of these plants altogether.  They include: Tulip bulbs, poinsettias, philodendrons, daffodils, lily of the valley, and azaleas.

* Foods: Dogs have a way of getting into cabinets where the “good stuff” is stored.  These foods are dangerous for dogs: chocolate, yeast, grapes, onions, and raisins.

* Insecticides: These should not be kept in the home, but kept in a locked cabinet or on a high shelf in the garage: rat poison, flea and tick products, and other insecticides.

* Cleaners: These are sometimes kept under the kitchen sink.  Dog-proof the cabinet so that these items cannot be taken out by your dog: bleach, detergent, furniture polish, soap, and disinfectants.

* Chemicals: These include lighter fluid, turpentine, antifreeze, gasoline, glue, paint, solvents, and any type of acids.

* Tobacco: Try to avoid leaving out a pack of cigarettes that can easily be eaten by a dog.

* Household Hazards:  Ensure that there are all the electrical outlets in your home are covered; no extension cords are within sight or available for a dog to chew on; all electrical appliances are turned off or unplugged, and small collectable items you have showcased in your home are transferred to the top of an open bookshelf or an enclosed glass closet.

* Ensure that no bathroom items are left out on the sink or counter.  If you have a cabinet under the bathroom sink, ensure it has a safety lock as well.

Dogs are a curious animal and they are inherently prone to forage for food or other items they consider chewable toys.  Think of your dog as another child; as dedicated as you are to child-proofing your home, consider dog-proofing as well.  In this way, there is no chance of an accident occurring when you are not home or when you are fast asleep.

For puppies, it’s a good recommendation to keep them in a kennel during the night so that they can sleep peacefully and not roam around the home.  For older dogs, no doubt they will be trained not to attempt to eat something they are not supposed to, or grab something out of a cabinet.

Always err on the side of caution, however.  A simple test would be to get down on your hands and knees and go through your entire home.  This test has been used by those who wish to child-proof their home; looking at it from a child’s perspective.  It is a sound idea.

We Recommend:

PetsWarehouse is where you can find bedding, food, treats, toys, health items and more for your favorite furry member of your family!

PerfectlyPamperedPets offers everything from dog beds and designer dog collars to dog steps and dog gift baskets. Save on raised dog diners and fancy dog collars as well as personalized dog collar designs and pet steps. Looking for pet gift baskets or the perfect dog lover gift? We’ve got them, along with dog furniture and dog collars. From leather dog collars to rhinestone dog collars, you just can’t beat the quality, variety and great prices you’ll find at PerfectlyPamperedPets!

Drugs that are poisonous to pets

Submitted by The Cat/Dog Log Blog

Many people take prescription and over-the-counter drugs for various conditions every day. But are you aware of the effect even one misplaced pill can have on your pet?

The ASPCA has a great article on this subject that I recommend all pet owners read. For a list of the top 10 drugs that are poisonous to your cats and dogs, click HERE.

The Dapper Dachshund: Just a Great Little Dog

Submitted by Big Paw Designs Blog

Darling and delightful the Dachshund is one of the most popular breeds in America. Those who are lucky enough to be owned by this little dog find them to be loyal, loving, fierce protectors, and the funniest clowns in all of dogdom. Beautiful and even elegant with its smooth body lines, these little dogs never cease to delight all who come under their spell.

As at home in the 10th floor apartment as it is on the farm, the dachshund (badger dog) was originally bred in Germany for hunting, what else, but badgers. Their tenacious persistence and relentless pursuit of their prey, along with their long, low bodies, make them perfect for following the badger right into the animal’s den. Their strong jaws can snap shut on a badger’s snout, and hold on, never letting go, until the animal has ceased its struggle, and it is bagged by the farmer or hunter. Dachshunds have even been known to die in the tunnel, always holding onto its prey. Its a pretty chilling thought for those of us who love the little dachshund.

Dachshunds come in two sizes: miniature, under 12 pounds, and standard, over 12 pounds. Both sizes compete in the show ring with great distinction. A dachshund’s coat can come in smooth, rough, or long hair, and a variety of colors. Each is just as adorable as the other. Beautiful and bright, a dachshund is full of surprises. Their intelligence is such, that it is not unusual, in the show ring, for the breed to gobble a snack, in passing, should a cookie or ice cream be within reach, without missing a step.

The dachshund is a scent-hound, whose sense of smell is so sensitive that it must never be kept off of the leash. If so, the dachshund will catch a smell and follow it forever, often becoming lost or hit by a car.

Dachshunds, especially the male, can be stubborn in house training. The males are markers, and they will have their territory “marked out,” no matter how many times they are crate trained. As a result dachshunds are often found in shelters, because the owner has grown tired of the failure to train. Thankfully there are numerous dachshund rescue groups, that seek out new owners who have more patience and persistence in training.

With shiny coat and black shoe-button eyes, the dachshund is irresistible as it meets its owner’s gaze, often making one think he has the wisdom of the ages in his glance. Dachshunds do have back problems, so they should be restrained from jumping up on things, or down from beds and sofas. This is second nature for the dachshund, so it is a difficult thing to train.

Proper weight is paramount. Always feed your dachshund the best dry dog food that you can afford, and only in amounts recommended by the veterinarian. The dachshund in the picture is seven years old, and he has had two back surgeries. He has been kept at a healthy weight, and his low body fat is one of the reasons he has come through so beautifully. He walks, runs, and plays, and due to his good health he will, no doubt, have many more years of joy to share with his owner.

I cannot stress enough, do not over-feed your dachshund! A dachshund will eat until he bursts. Keep him on a premium, healthy diet, and you with be thrilled to have your dachshund bless your life for many years to come. Jaye Lewis

Why Your Cat Should be an Indoor Cat

Submitted by Big Paw Designs Blog

Many people who would never consider allowing their dogs to run loose have no similar compunction when it comes to the felines in their lives. Even though many of us grew up with the image of the old tomcat roaming the neighborhood, there are many good reasons for keeping those cats in the house.

The number one reason for keeping a cat indoors, of course, is safety. The safety of the cat itself and the safety of other neighborhood pets and wildlife depend on keeping that cat indoors. Roaming cats can do a great deal of damage to local wildlife, and of course dogs, cars and mean people can do lots of damage to the cat. Cats who live indoors tend to be much healthier, and to live much longer lives, than their outdoor counterparts.

Outdoor cats may also come into contact with all sorts of diseases to which indoor cats are never exposed. Even if the cat is vaccinated, infection can occur, and an infected cat may pass illness on to other household pets, or even to the family. In addition, cats that stay indoors can be more easily monitored for early signs of illness.

And of course keeping that cat indoors makes it that much more a part of the family. Cats are wonderful pets, and allowing them to share our homes, our lives and our hearts, allows us to get the most from the relationship. Even cats that are at first difficult to keep indoors can learn to enjoy the easy life on the couch, so do your favorite feline a favor and keep him on your side of the front door.

All articles copyright bigpawdesigns.com. Do not repost or copy without permission.
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Dog Toy: Do’s and Don’ts

Submitted by Natural Pet Health Blog

The best dog toy is that which is not harmful to the dog, but affords him hours of fun.  Let’s look at some do’s and don’ts when purchasing a dog toy.

Depending on the breed, some dogs prefer a particular toy over others.  In fact, while it may not be a toy at all, some dogs may become attached to an inanimate object much like a child will hang on to a security blanket.

Generally, however, dogs love toys that squeak.  Doesn’t matter what shape or color it is, as long as it squeaks, it becomes a favorite. 

* Do buy a toy that squeaks and is made of durable rubber.
* Don’t, however, purchase a squeaky toy that can easily be torn.  A dog can easily choke on the squeaker.

Taking your dog to the part is an important part of their exercise regimen.  As such, bringing along the Frisbee or tennis ball will give your dog hours of pleasure.

* Do buy a Frisbee and tennis balls.
* Don’t buy any that are made of hard plastic.

Dogs love to chew on just about anything, especially puppies.  While plastic bones are widely available, dogs prefer bones they can readily chew such as rawhide.

* Do buy dog bones made of vegetable material.
* Don’t give your done a bone made of rawhide as they tend to eat it causing digestive problems.

Dogs particular love toys that have a secret compartment wherein you can place food.

* Do buy a rubber toy called the Kong, a heavy duty toy with a hole in the center.
* Don’t buy cheap toys that are made of plastic or that can be easily chewed.  Dogs can break them and choke on or cut their gums on the pieces.

The truth is, you can easily make a toy out of an old sock.  Make some large knots in it and your dog will be perfectly happy.  But when choosing a dog toy, it is important to read the label to ensure it is perfectly safe, does not contain any lead, and is durable.

The best method would be to purchase a variety of toys and let your dog choose the ones which he prefers.  Whether the toys are stuffed, squeakers, or have hidden compartments; your dog will be the best judge as to what is more to his liking. 

Once you have found the right one – stock up on it.  If you are a pet owner, you know from experience that once a dog is given a toy that squeaks, for example, it will take about five minutes before that toy loses its squeaking capability.  Choose one that is durable and will last longer.

We Recommend:

PetsWarehouse is where you can find bedding, food, treats, toys, health items and more for your favorite furry member of your family - including your favorite canine!

and

PerfectlyPamperedPets offers everything from dog beds and designer dog collars to dog steps and dog gift baskets. Save on raised dog diners and fancy dog collars as well as personalized dog collar designs and pet steps. Looking for pet gift baskets or the perfect dog lover gift? We’ve got them, along with dog furniture and dog collars. From leather dog collars to rhinestone dog collars, you just can’t beat the quality, variety and great prices you’ll find at PerfectlyPamperedPets!

Pets and Produce Don’t Always Mix

Submitted by Big Paw Designs Blog

As a pet owner, you need to be aware of what your pets may and may not eat. A lot of pet owners are unaware of the potential dangers lurking in the produce section of the grocery. Certain seasonal fruits can be harmful, and potentially fatal, to your pets.

Citrus is a wonderfully refreshing fruit for people, but did you know that the peels, fruit and seeds can be harmful to your pets? Citric acid, limonin and other volatile oils are found in lemons, limes, oranges and grapefruits. They can lead to gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting and diarrhea. Be sure to wash your hands after handling such fruit, and don’t feed them to your pets.

Apples, cherries, peaches, apricots, and other pitted fruits are also a wonderful treat for people, but we don’t eat the stems, leaves or seeds. While the fruit meat may be a treat for your pets, the other parts can cause serious issues. Pitted fruits contain cyanogenic glycosides in the stems, leaves and seeds. Allowing your pet to consume them can lead to cyanide poisoning. Symptoms can include loss of appetite, vomiting, weakness, difficulty breathing, hyperventilation, shock, and even death. The more severe effects are typically seen in grazing animals after very large amounts have been ingested.

As a pet owner it’s always a good idea to be aware of plants that may be available to your pets, and to make sure that potentially hazardous species are not accessible to your pets.

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Choosing Bedding for Your Guinea Pig

Submitted by Natural Pet Health Blog

Your guinea pigs pen is an important part of his life, mainly because this is where he will spend the majority of his time. One of the most important aspects of his pen is his bedding. Not only will he root around in the bedding, but he will sleep on it, walk on it, nibble it, and even eliminate on it if he doesn’t use a litter box. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that just any bedding will do for your beloved guinea pig.

Wordless Wednesday

Submitted by The Cat/Dog Log Blog

(photo origin unknown)

Natural Remedies for Pets: Are They Safe?

Submitted by Natural Pet Health Blog

In the United States, there are millions of Americans who use natural remedies as a way to seek treatment or relief from a minor medical issue.  Since many are pleased with the results, ease of use, as well as affordability, many pet owners wonder if natural remedies can be used on their pets.  In most cases, you will see that they can.

When it comes to using natural remedies for pets, there are a number of important points that you will first want to take into consideration.  One of those points is your source of information.  If you decide to use a natural remedy that you got online, be sure to use your best judgment.  Make sure that you are getting your information from a trusted website.  In fact, the best ways to get information on natural remedies for pets is by buying printed resources, namely remedy books for pets, or by speaking with a vet.

Another point that you will want to take into consideration, before deciding to use a natural remedy on your pet, is the problem at hand.  For example, if your dog is having difficulty breathing or if they are bleeding excessively from a deep wound, it may be best to seek professional help.  With that being said, natural remedies are a safe, easy, and affordable way to treat some pets with minor medical issues.

Now that you know it is safe to use natural remedies on pets, you may be wondering what some of the most popular remedies are.  A few popular home remedies for pets are outlined below.  However, remember that additional remedies can be found online, with a standard internet search, by speaking with a vet, or by purchasing printed natural remedy resources for pets.

Arthritis is a problem that many older dogs deal with.  If you are the owner of a dog who is suffering from arthritis, there are number of natural ways that you can provide them with relief.  A warm wet washcloth or towel can be applied to the painful area for about twenty to thirty minutes.  Additional steps involve reducing your dog’s weight and keeping them away from extremely cold temperatures.

Ear mites is another issue that pets, especially dogs and cats deal with.  Ear mites are important to take care of, as they result in itching, which can lead to an infection and other complications.  One natural way to get rid of ear mites is to create an ounce or half-ounce mixture of vitamin E and almond.  The mixture should then be put into a dropper and inserted in your dog or cat’s ear.  Garlic and olive oil can also be used to reduce the itching that is commonly associated with ear mites.

Although natural remedies can be used on many other pets besides just cats and dogs, it is important to use your best judgment, as previously stated.  Just because one home remedy works on one animal, like a dog, it does not mean that it will work or be safe for another animal, like a horse.  If you use the internet to find information on natural remedies, be sure to find detailed and specific instructions.  This simple step can help to ensure that your pet gets the best level of relief, safely, from the use of a natural remedy.

We Recommend:

According to pet expert and author CJ Puotinen, most holistic veterinarians and animal health care professions list annual vaccinations and commercial pet foods as the major contributory cause in the rising rates of chronic illness in pets today. This has led many veterinarians to search for alternatives and to espouse more holistic methods of keeping our pets healthy.

Natural remedies for humans have been used with great effect for the pets in the family. Therefore, how could  the need for remedies especially designed and formulated for pets, with pet friendly doses and remedies which could be easily administered to dogs and cats, be ignored?

Out of this obvious need was born PetAlive - a range of herbal, homeopathic and nutraceutical remedies to help with a variety of ailments commonly experienced by pets. Formulated by a clinical psychologist, all PetAlive remedies are pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards, are 100% guaranteed, safe and effective to help your pet battle common illnesses and ailments and maintain optimum health.

Food Drive For Pets From Meals on Wheels and Banfield Pet Hospital

Submitted by Healthy Pets Blog

I’m sure you know of Banfield, The Pet Hospital, they are a private veterinary practice with hospitals located in many communities across the country.

Along with medical care for pets, they are also committed to providing quality, loving and wise care to Pets and their owners. Since you visit this blog and it’s all about pets, I thought you might be interested in hearing about a great program Banfield is currently offering.

Banfield has teamed up with the Meals On Wheels Association of America (MOWAA) for a national Pet food drive called Season of Suppers. Banfield hospitals across the nation are collecting Pet food at their locations and donating it to their local MOWAA program to feed Pets of senior citizens that receive meals. Isn’t that great?!

Go to your local Banfield from now until December 31 to make your donation! Find your local Banfield here: Find Banfield.

With Thanksgiving coming up soon, I wanted to share this information with you so that we can help to make someone’s holiday extra special.

Tips to Help Your Dog Get Along with Other Pets

Submitted by Natural Pet Health Blog

Let’s assume you have a Bichon Friz at home and have decided to acquire another one as a companion.  Here are some tips to help your dog get along with other pets.

Before we get into the whys and wherefores, it is important to remember that any new member of the pet family will encounter a rigorous and sometimes jealous stance when a new pet arrives.  If you think about it, some children who are presented with a newborn baby tend to become upset because they have to compete for attention for the first time.

Dogs are very territorial.  Some even resent other pets being around their masters.  When a new pet is brought into the home, whether it’s a parakeet, cat, or turtle; the dog asserts his dominance and after awhile all is well.  However, when another dog is brought into the home – you may experience the following behavior:

Your dog not only asserts his dominance as the alpha male, but may fight with the new dog; eat his food; and generally play in a rough manner.  This is normal and should not be interfered with.  The new dog will have to play a subordinate role until he is fully accepted by the alpha male.

In order to keep things from getting out of hand, you might want to separate the dogs for a period of time.  Your pet will know there is another dog in the home by his scent.  Create an atmosphere that is conducive to them getting to know each other.

When they finally meet, try not to favor your pet over the new dog.  Treat them both equally.  It will take time for the new dog to acclimate to his new surroundings, and it will take your pet time to acclimate to the new arrival.  If necessary, keep the new pup in a kennel until they both become comfortable with each other.  The same holds true for cats as well.

Take your pet out for a walk.  Let him know that you are still there for him and you have not changed his routine simply because there is another dog in the house.  If he acts out against the new pup, call to him to come to another room.  Play and interact with him.  Use constant praise when he listens and offer a treat when he obeys your commands.

Put out dishes of food and water for each dog, always giving preference to your older pet.  Remember, he is the alpha male and deserves respect.  This is more for the young pup that for you.

Establish a routine that involves both pets.  Try not to favor one over the other but treat them equally.  If you give one dog a treat, ensure you give the other dog a treat.  If you buy dog toys, they may fight over them for awhile until the new pup gives up.  They’ll work it out.  Do not feel you have to intercede in everything they do.

The only time you should become involved is if they constantly fight.  Eventually, a bond will form and they will become the best of friends.  However, try not to leave them along for long periods of time, especially in the beginning.

No matter what other pets you may introduce to your dog, remember that it will take time, patience, love, attention, and a lot of aspirin – (for you, not the dogs!)

We Recommend:

According to pet expert and author CJ Puotinen, most holistic veterinarians and animal health care professions list annual vaccinations and commercial pet foods as the major contributory cause in the rising rates of chronic illness in pets today. This has led many veterinarians to search for alternatives and to espouse more holistic methods of keeping our pets healthy.

Natural remedies for humans have been used with great effect for the pets in the family. Therefore, how could  the need for remedies especially designed and formulated for pets, with pet friendly doses and remedies which could be easily administered to dogs and cats, be ignored?

Out of this obvious need was born PetAlive - a range of herbal, homeopathic and nutraceutical remedies to help with a variety of ailments commonly experienced by pets. Formulated by a clinical psychologist, all PetAlive remedies are pharmaceutically manufactured to the highest standards, are 100% guaranteed, safe and effective to help your pet battle common illnesses and ailments and maintain optimum health.

Pamper Your Dog: 130 Treats for Your Canine Friend - Free Ebook > http://www.remedies…-dog-130-recipes.pdf

Pamper Your Cat: 100 Treats for Your Feline Friend - Free Ebook > http://www.remedies…-cat-100-recipes.pdf

For Guaranteed, Effective, 100% Natural Herbal Remedies for Pets, please visit PetAlive!

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